Emergency Guide: What to Do When You Encounter Wildlife in Your Home

Posted on October 5, 2024

Settling down for a cozy evening at home, you hear an unexpected rustle in the corner of your living room. Your heart races as you realize you’re not alone—a wild creature has found its way inside. Whether it’s a curious squirrel, a startled bat, or even a slithering snake, encountering wildlife in your home can be both alarming and bewildering.

In these moments, knowing how to respond calmly and effectively is crucial. Panicking might seem like the natural reaction, but maintaining a clear head can make all the difference. You’ll not only ensure your safety but also protect the animal, which is often just as frightened as you are. What steps should you take when faced with these unexpected visitors?

Recognising Wildlife Emergencies

Identifying if an animal needs help is crucial when encountering wildlife in your home. Look for clear signs of distress such as bleeding, fractures, or a severe head tilt. An animal unable to stand or move may also indicate an emergency. If you’re unsure, contacting a local wildlife rehabilitator can provide guidance.

Maintain a safe distance to avoid injury to yourself and the animal. If the animal acts aggressively or exhibits signs of rabies, such as excessive drooling or erratic behaviour, it’s vital to contact local animal control or a wildlife rehabilitator immediately.

Avoid feeding or providing water to the animal. Wildlife often requires specialized diets that are not easily replicated at home, and providing the wrong food or drink could cause more harm. Instead, focus on contacting a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.

Steps to Take During a Wildlife Encounter

Encountering wildlife in your home can be startling. It’s crucial to act wisely to ensure your safety and the animal’s well-being.

Maintain a Safe Distance

Keep at least 10 feet away from the animal to avoid potential threats or injuries. For example, if you spot a raccoon in your kitchen, step back slowly and observe from a distance. This ensures both your safety and the animal’s comfort, reducing the likelihood of aggressive behaviour.

Avoid Feeding or Provoking the Animal

Wildlife intruders tend to exploit weak points in your home’s defenses – doors, windows, and eaves are prime examples of such vulnerabilities. Reinforcing these entry points reduces the chances of intrusion substantially. Consider reconstructing external areas of your home that help easy wildlife entry like chimneys or air vents. Apply industrial-strength caulking to minor cracks and holes that might allow smaller creatures like mice or bats to enter through.

Use Drip Edges and Gutter Guards

Refrain from offering food or attempting to interact with the animal. Feeding can create dependency and alter natural behaviour. If you encounter a fox, resist the urge to offer scraps. Provoking or disturbing the animal can cause it to become defensive, increasing risk for everyone involved.
racoon inside the living room

Protecting Pets and Family Members

Encountering wildlife in your home can be alarming. But, focusing on safety measures ensures that both your pets and family members remain protected.

Pet Safety Tips

Keep pets inside to prevent conflicts with wildlife. For instance, if a raccoon enters your home, your dog’s instinct might be to chase it, risking injury. Secure pets in a separate room until the situation is resolved. Ensure pets have access to food and water within their safe space.

Human Safety Measures

Maintain a safe distance from the wildlife to avoid attacks or bites. If you encounter a bat in your attic, stay back and do not attempt to capture it. Close the door to the room and call a professional. Avoid touching or feeding the animal to prevent escalation.

Handling Sick or Injured Wildlife

Contact a Licensed Wildlife Removal Company

Reach out to a local, licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately. They can offer specific instructions on handling the animal and arrange for its transport to a rehabilitation facility.

Wear Protective Gear

Always wear gloves to protect yourself from bites and scratches. Some animals can bite through gloves, so be cautious. Diseases like rabies are a concern, making protective gear essential.

Use a Safe and Secure Container

For smaller home invaders, such as mice, use a secure, escape-proof container like a cardboard box or pet carrier. Cover the container with a towel or blanket to keep the animal calm. This reduces stress for the animal and prevents potential injuries.

Avoid Direct Contact

Do not touch or feed the animal unless instructed by a wildlife rehabilitator. Direct contact can stress the animal and pose health risks to you.

Whom to Contact for Wildlife Assistance

Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. They have the expertise to handle these situations and can guide you through the process.

Handling wildlife emergencies requires care and attention. By following these steps and seeking professional help, you contribute to the well-being of the animal and maintain your safety.

Preventing Wildlife Intrusion

Wildlife can be fascinating until they make themselves at home in your cozy abode. Preventing wildlife intrusion starts with some simple yet effective steps.

Seal Entry Points

Ensure all holes and gaps in your home, including vents, chimneys, and windows, are securely sealed. For example, use caulk or metal mesh for small gaps and ensure chimney caps are in place. This straightforward action stops animals like squirrels, bats, and birds from gaining access.

Secure Trash

Keep your trash cans tightly sealed and store them in secure locations. Wildlife, including raccoons and foxes, are drawn to easy food sources. By using bins with locking lids, you make your home less enticing.

Remove Food Sources

Keep your home clean and avoid leaving food or pet food outdoors. For instance, store pet food in airtight containers and clean up any outdoor eating areas promptly. This reduces the temptation for wildlife to approach your home.

Home and Garden Deterrents

Use repellents such as ammonia-soaked rags or mothballs in areas where wildlife may enter. Install fencing around gardens and yards to keep animals like deer and rabbits out. Noise deterrents, such as ultrasonic repellent devices, can also be effective.

Waste Management Practices

Ensure compost bins are secure and avoid putting meat or dairy products in them. These items can attract wildlife. Regularly clean your bins to reduce odours that might draw animals. An organized waste management system can significantly reduce the likelihood of wildlife intrusion.
mouse digging at the garbage looking for food

Professional Wildlife Removal Services

In cases where wildlife poses a direct threat to your safety or when an animal is sick or injured, professional assistance is crucial. Wildside Wildlife Removal & Prevention offers expert services to safely and humanely handle wildlife encounters in your home. Their team of licensed professionals is equipped to deal with a variety of wildlife issues, ensuring that the animals are treated with care and respect. Their methods prioritize the well-being of animals while effectively addressing the issue. They also offer prevention solutions to secure your home and avoid future intrusions, ensuring safety and peace of mind.